Patentable/Patents/US-10497074
US-10497074

System, method, and apparatus for settlement for participation in an electric power grid

PublishedDecember 3, 2019
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Inventorsnot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Systems, methods, and apparatus embodiments for electric power grid and network registration and management of physical and financial settlement for participation of active grid elements in supply and/or curtailment of power. Settlement is provided for grid elements that participate in the electric power grid following initial registration of each grid element with the system, preferably through network-based communication between the grid elements and a coordinator, either in coordination with or outside of an IP-based communications network router. A multiplicity of active grid elements function in the grid for supply capacity, supply and/or load curtailment as supply or capacity, and are compensated through settlement for their functional participation in the electric power grid. Also, messaging related to settlement is managed through a network by a Coordinator using IP messaging for communication with the grid elements, with the energy management system (EMS), and with the utilities, market participants, and/or grid operators.

Patent Claims
20 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. A system for market-based financial settlement of transactions within an electric power grid network comprising: a settlement processor; at least one coordinator; and at least one active grid element; wherein the settlement processor comprises a server and/or a processor operatively coupled with a memory, and a database constructed and configured for electrical connection and IP-based communication via a network with at least one coordinator; wherein the at least one coordinator is constructed and configured for electrical connection and IP-based network communication with the at least one active grid element that is registered to participate within the electric power grid network; wherein the at least one active grid element generates at least one KWP unit containing information for a market-based financial settlement, including measured data transformed by the at least one active grid element into settlement grade data for market financial settlement corresponding to participation of each of the at least one active grid element in the electric power grid network for load, supply or curtailment as supply; wherein a settlement message is transmitted via an IP-based network from the at least one active grid element to the settlement processor and/or the at least one coordinator; and wherein the settlement message includes an IP packet including revenue grade metrology associated with each of the at least one active grid element and at least one KWP unit for the market-based financial settlement corresponding to the participation of each of the at least one active grid element within the electric power grid network.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for enabling market-based financial settlements of transactions within an electric power grid network. The system addresses the challenge of accurately compensating participants in the grid for their contributions to load, supply, or curtailment as supply, ensuring fair and transparent financial settlements based on precise metrology data. The system includes a settlement processor, at least one coordinator, and at least one active grid element. The settlement processor, which may be a server or processor with memory, is connected to a database and communicates via an IP-based network with the coordinator. The coordinator, in turn, connects to active grid elements—devices or systems registered to participate in the grid network. These active grid elements generate KWP (Key Work Product) units containing settlement-grade data derived from measured operational data. This data reflects the element's participation in load management, energy supply, or curtailment activities. The system ensures that settlement messages, transmitted via IP-based networks, include revenue-grade metrology data and KWP units. This data is used to calculate financial settlements for each active grid element's contributions to the grid. The coordinator facilitates communication between the active grid elements and the settlement processor, ensuring accurate and timely transmission of settlement-relevant information. The overall system enables automated, market-based financial compensation for grid participants, improving efficiency and fairness in power grid transactions.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one coordinator and/or the settlement processor is operable to aggregate KWP units and power supply value (PSV) units to form a power trading block (PTB).

Plain English Translation

A system for power trading and settlement in energy networks addresses inefficiencies in decentralized energy transactions. The system enables peer-to-peer energy trading by coordinating transactions between energy producers and consumers, ensuring accurate tracking and settlement of energy exchanges. A key component is the aggregation of Kilowatt-hour (KWP) units and Power Supply Value (PSV) units into a power trading block (PTB). This aggregation simplifies the trading process by grouping energy transactions into standardized blocks, facilitating smoother settlement and reducing transactional complexity. The system includes a coordinator and a settlement processor that manage the aggregation process, ensuring that energy transactions are accurately recorded and settled. By forming PTBs, the system enhances the efficiency of energy trading, particularly in decentralized networks where multiple small-scale transactions occur. This approach improves liquidity and reduces the administrative burden associated with individual energy trades. The system is designed to operate in environments where energy is generated and consumed by multiple independent parties, such as microgrids or community energy networks. The aggregation of KWP and PSV units into PTBs ensures that energy transactions are standardized, making it easier to track and settle energy flows across the network. This innovation supports the scalability and reliability of decentralized energy markets.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The system of claim 1 wherein one or a multiplicity of grid elements aggregate and/or integrate through one of the at least one active grid element acting as a master grid element and/or a virtual grid element, wherein participation of the one of the at least one active grid element is representative of participation of the one or multiplicity of grid elements.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a grid-based system for aggregating and integrating data or operations across multiple grid elements. The system addresses the challenge of managing and coordinating distributed grid elements, which may be physical or virtual, to function as a unified or representative unit. The core system includes at least one active grid element that serves as a master or virtual grid element, enabling it to act on behalf of one or more other grid elements. When the master grid element participates in a process or operation, its participation is deemed representative of the participation of the associated grid elements, allowing for streamlined coordination and decision-making. The system ensures that the actions or data of the master grid element reflect the collective behavior or state of the aggregated grid elements, simplifying management and reducing complexity in distributed systems. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring synchronized operations, such as energy grids, sensor networks, or distributed computing environments, where centralized control or virtual representation of multiple elements is beneficial. The invention enhances efficiency by reducing the need for individual element interactions and enabling scalable, coordinated control.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The system of claim 3 , wherein each of the one or multiplicity of grid elements transform into sub-grid elements upon the aggregation and/or the integration, wherein the settlement message includes information for a unique financial settlement that corresponds to each sub-grid element.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a financial settlement system that processes transactions using a grid-based structure. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing and settling financial transactions across multiple parties by organizing transactions into a grid of elements. Each grid element can further subdivide into smaller sub-grid elements when transactions are aggregated or integrated. The system generates settlement messages that include unique financial settlement details for each sub-grid element, ensuring precise and individualized settlement processing. The grid structure allows for scalable and modular handling of transactions, improving accuracy and reducing complexity in financial settlements. The transformation of grid elements into sub-grid elements enables detailed tracking and resolution of individual financial obligations within larger transaction groups. This approach enhances transparency and efficiency in financial settlements by dynamically adjusting the granularity of transaction processing based on aggregation or integration requirements. The system ensures that each sub-grid element is associated with a unique settlement record, facilitating accurate reconciliation and compliance with financial regulations. The invention improves upon traditional settlement methods by providing a flexible and adaptable framework for handling complex financial transactions.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The system of claim 3 , wherein the one or a multiplicity of grid elements comprise a microgrid or a datacenter.

Plain English Translation

A system is disclosed for managing energy distribution within a microgrid or datacenter environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently allocating and optimizing energy resources in localized power networks, where traditional grid infrastructure may be insufficient or costly. The system includes a plurality of grid elements, such as energy storage units, renewable energy sources, and load management devices, interconnected to form a microgrid or datacenter power network. These elements are dynamically controlled to balance energy supply and demand, ensuring stability and reliability. The system may incorporate predictive algorithms to forecast energy consumption patterns and adjust power distribution accordingly. Additionally, it can integrate with external energy markets or utility grids to procure or sell excess energy when economically favorable. The system also supports fault detection and isolation to maintain operational continuity during disruptions. By decentralizing energy management, the system enhances resilience, reduces costs, and promotes sustainable energy use in microgrids and datacenters.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The system of claim 3 , wherein the one or a multiplicity of grid elements includes a smart meter, the smart meter providing functions to track and communicate data associated with at least one of a thermostat, a building control system, an HVAC system, and any other system that provides for controlling or indicating environmental conditions including humidity, temperature, lighting, and security.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for monitoring and controlling environmental conditions within a building or facility. The system addresses the need for integrated management of various environmental systems, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, security, and humidity control, to improve energy efficiency, comfort, and operational efficiency. The system includes one or more grid elements, which may be smart meters, that track and communicate data related to environmental conditions. These smart meters are capable of interfacing with multiple systems, including thermostats, building control systems, HVAC systems, and other devices that monitor or regulate environmental factors like temperature, humidity, lighting, and security. The smart meters collect and transmit data to a central system, enabling real-time monitoring and automated adjustments to optimize energy usage and maintain desired conditions. This integration allows for centralized control, predictive maintenance, and enhanced responsiveness to changing environmental conditions, improving overall system efficiency and user comfort. The system may also support remote access and control, enabling users to monitor and adjust settings from external devices.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The system of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the at least one coordinator, the at least one active grid element, and the settlement processor is operable to communicate with at least one of a data center, a central office, a retail store, a hospital, a fabrication facility, a manufacturing facility, and a service facility.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a distributed energy management system designed to optimize energy distribution and settlement in a grid network. The system addresses inefficiencies in traditional energy grids by dynamically coordinating energy flow between multiple grid elements, such as generators, storage units, and loads, to balance supply and demand in real time. A coordinator manages these elements, while a settlement processor handles financial transactions based on energy transactions. The system includes at least one coordinator, multiple active grid elements, and a settlement processor. The coordinator monitors and controls the grid elements to ensure stable and efficient energy distribution. The active grid elements can generate, store, or consume energy, and their operations are adjusted based on real-time data. The settlement processor calculates and processes payments or credits for energy transactions between grid participants, ensuring fair compensation. A key feature is the ability of the coordinator, active grid elements, or settlement processor to communicate with external facilities such as data centers, central offices, retail stores, hospitals, fabrication facilities, manufacturing facilities, or service facilities. This connectivity enables the system to integrate with broader infrastructure, allowing for energy sharing, demand response, and optimized resource allocation across diverse sectors. The system improves grid resilience, reduces costs, and enhances sustainability by leveraging distributed energy resources and automated settlement processes.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The system of claim 1 , wherein at least one of a customer identifier, a billing identifier, and a grid element unique identifier, are assigned to each of the at least one active grid element, and wherein the grid element unique identifier further includes an IP address, an equipment identifier, a mac address, location-based factors, time-based factors, grid-function-based factors, at least one grid reliability factor, and/or at least one grid stability factor.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for managing and identifying active grid elements within an electrical power grid. The system addresses the challenge of tracking and monitoring individual grid components to ensure reliable and stable grid operation. Each active grid element in the system is assigned at least one identifier, which may include a customer identifier, a billing identifier, or a grid element unique identifier. The grid element unique identifier is particularly detailed, incorporating multiple factors to ensure precise identification and tracking. These factors include an IP address, an equipment identifier, a MAC address, location-based factors (such as geographic coordinates), time-based factors (such as timestamps or operational schedules), grid-function-based factors (such as the role of the element in the grid), at least one grid reliability factor (such as historical performance metrics), and at least one grid stability factor (such as voltage or frequency stability indicators). This detailed identification system enables enhanced monitoring, diagnostics, and management of grid elements, improving overall grid efficiency and reliability. The system ensures that each grid element can be uniquely and comprehensively tracked, facilitating better decision-making for maintenance, billing, and operational adjustments.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The system of claim 1 , wherein the market-based financial settlement includes factors for grid stability-based pricing, operating reserves-based pricing, peak and off-peak timing pricing, and estimations, network models, and/or real-time measurement of actual participation by each of the at least one active grid element, and/or the losses associated with transmission, distribution, and/or resource nodes.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for market-based financial settlement in energy grids, addressing the challenge of efficiently compensating distributed energy resources (DERs) while ensuring grid stability and optimizing network operations. The system calculates financial settlements by incorporating multiple pricing factors, including grid stability-based pricing to incentivize contributions to system reliability, operating reserves-based pricing to account for reserve capacity, and peak/off-peak timing pricing to manage demand fluctuations. It also integrates estimations, network models, and real-time measurements to assess the actual participation of active grid elements, such as DERs, storage systems, or demand response devices. Additionally, the system accounts for losses associated with transmission, distribution, and resource nodes, ensuring accurate compensation for energy flows and grid services. By dynamically adjusting settlements based on these factors, the system promotes efficient grid operations, fair compensation, and improved integration of distributed energy resources. The invention enhances grid resilience by aligning financial incentives with system-wide stability and operational needs.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The system of claim 1 , further comprising at least one resource settlement point providing for grid element mobility for the market-based financial settlement at more than one location within the electric power grid network.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an electric power grid network system designed to enhance financial settlement flexibility by enabling grid element mobility. The system addresses the challenge of static settlement points in traditional power grids, which limit financial transactions to predefined locations, creating inefficiencies in market-based energy trading. The system includes at least one resource settlement point that allows grid elements—such as generators, storage systems, or demand response assets—to participate in financial settlements at multiple locations within the grid. This mobility feature enables dynamic market participation, improving liquidity and optimizing revenue generation for grid operators and market participants. The system may also incorporate features from a base system, such as real-time monitoring, automated bidding, or demand forecasting, to support the mobility of settlement points. By decoupling financial transactions from fixed locations, the system facilitates more flexible and efficient energy trading, reducing costs and enhancing grid resilience. The invention is particularly useful in modern power grids with distributed energy resources and complex market structures.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. A system for market-based financial settlement of transactions within an electric power grid network comprising: a settlement processor; a legacy settlement processor; at least one coordinator; and at least one grid element; wherein the settlement processor and the legacy settlement processor each comprise a server and/or a processor operatively coupled with a memory, and a database constructed and configured for electrical connection and IP-based communication via a network with at least one coordinator; wherein the at least one coordinator is constructed and configured for electrical connection and IP-based network communication with the at least one grid element that is registered to participate within the electric power grid network; wherein one of the at least one grid element aggregates revenue grade metrology from the other of the at least one grid element and generates information for the market-based financial settlement for each of the at least one grid element, wherein the information includes at least one kilowatt packet (KWP) unit; and wherein a settlement message is transmitted via IP-based messaging from the one of the at least one grid element to the settlement processor and/or the at least one coordinator.

Plain English Translation

This system enables market-based financial settlement of transactions within an electric power grid network, addressing inefficiencies in traditional energy trading and settlement processes. The system includes a settlement processor, a legacy settlement processor, at least one coordinator, and at least one grid element. Each processor comprises a server or processor with memory and a database, connected via electrical and IP-based network communication to at least one coordinator. The coordinator is similarly connected to at least one grid element registered to participate in the grid network. One grid element aggregates revenue-grade metrology data from other grid elements and generates settlement information, including kilowatt packet (KWP) units, for market-based financial transactions. This information is transmitted via IP-based messaging to the settlement processor or coordinator, facilitating automated and accurate financial settlements. The system integrates legacy settlement processors to ensure compatibility with existing infrastructure while enabling modern, decentralized energy trading. The use of KWP units standardizes energy transactions, improving transparency and efficiency in grid operations. The coordinator acts as an intermediary, ensuring seamless communication between grid elements and settlement processors, while the settlement processor handles the financial aspects of energy transactions. This approach streamlines energy markets by automating settlement processes and enabling real-time financial transactions based on precise metrology data.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The system of claim 11 , wherein the settlement message further includes an IP packet relating to the aggregated revenue grade metrology associated with the at least one KWP unit for the market-based financial settlement corresponding to a participation of each of the at least one grid element within the electric power grid network.

Plain English Translation

The system relates to financial settlement processes in electric power grid networks, specifically for market-based transactions involving distributed energy resources (DERs). The problem addressed is the need for accurate, real-time financial settlements between grid operators, DER owners, and other stakeholders based on precise metrology data. Traditional systems often lack the granularity or interoperability required for dynamic market-based settlements, leading to inefficiencies and disputes. The system includes a settlement module that processes and transmits settlement messages containing revenue-grade metrology data. This data is aggregated from multiple Key Wholesale Participant (KWP) units, which are entities or devices participating in the grid's market operations. The settlement message further includes an IP packet that encapsulates the aggregated metrology data, ensuring secure and standardized transmission. This data is used to calculate financial settlements for each participating grid element, such as DERs, storage systems, or transmission assets, based on their contributions to the grid's market operations. The system ensures that settlements are transparent, auditable, and aligned with market-based pricing mechanisms, improving fairness and efficiency in grid transactions. The IP packet structure allows for seamless integration with existing grid communication protocols, enabling real-time data exchange and settlement processing.

Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The system of claim 11 , wherein the at least one coordinator provides a master settlement message wherein individual messages from each of the at least one grid element are aggregated to form a power trade block (PTB) once at least one PTB is achieved.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a distributed energy management system for coordinating power transactions among multiple grid elements, such as renewable energy generators, storage systems, and loads. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently aggregating and settling power trades in a decentralized grid environment, where multiple participants need to transact energy in a secure and transparent manner. The system includes at least one coordinator that facilitates power trading between grid elements. Each grid element can generate, store, or consume energy and communicates with the coordinator to propose or accept power trades. The coordinator aggregates individual trade messages from these grid elements into a power trade block (PTB) once a sufficient number of transactions are accumulated. This PTB represents a batch of settled power trades, ensuring that all transactions are recorded and reconciled in a single settlement message. The coordinator then distributes this master settlement message to all participating grid elements, confirming the execution of the trades. This approach improves efficiency by reducing the frequency of individual settlements and ensures consistency across the grid by batching transactions. The system is particularly useful in microgrids or peer-to-peer energy markets where decentralized coordination is essential.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. A system for market-based financial settlement of transactions within an electric power grid network comprising: a settlement processor; at least one coordinator remotely positioned from the settlement processor; at least one master active grid element; a plurality of active grid elements; and at least one other active grid element; wherein the plurality of active grid elements and the at least one other active grid element are operable to perform at least one event within the electric power grid network; wherein the at least one master active grid element is operable to aggregate revenue grade metrology data corresponding to the at least one event performed within the electric power grid network by the plurality of active grid elements after the at least one event is performed within the electric power grid network; wherein the at least one coordinator is operable to receive the revenue grade metrology data from the at least one master active grid element and the at least one other active grid element; wherein the at least one coordinator and/or the at least one master active grid element is operable to send a settlement message to the settlement processor after receiving the revenue grade metrology data; wherein the settlement message includes an IP packet including the revenue grade metrology data associated with at least one of the at least one master active grid element, the plurality of active grid elements, and the at least one other active grid element; and wherein the settlement processor is operable to provide a financial settlement based on the revenue grade metrology data.

Plain English Translation

The system enables market-based financial settlement of transactions within an electric power grid network by facilitating the aggregation, transmission, and processing of revenue-grade metrology data. The system includes a settlement processor, at least one coordinator, at least one master active grid element, multiple active grid elements, and at least one additional active grid element. These components collaborate to perform events within the grid, such as energy transactions or adjustments. After an event occurs, the master active grid element collects and aggregates precise metrology data from the participating active grid elements. This data is then transmitted to the coordinator, which may also receive data directly from other active grid elements. The coordinator or master active grid element sends a settlement message to the settlement processor, containing the metrology data encapsulated in an IP packet. The settlement processor processes this data to determine financial settlements, ensuring accurate compensation for energy transactions within the grid. The system automates and streamlines financial settlements by leveraging real-time, high-precision metrology data, improving efficiency and transparency in grid operations.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The system of claim 14 wherein the settlement message includes at least one of a kilowatt packet (KWP) unit, a power supply value (PSV) unit, a power trading block (PTB) unit, and combinations thereof associated with at least one of the at least one master active grid element, the plurality of active grid elements, and the at least one other active grid element.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an energy settlement system for distributed energy grids, addressing the challenge of efficiently tracking and compensating energy transactions between multiple active grid elements. The system enables real-time or near-real-time settlement of energy exchanges by generating and transmitting settlement messages that include standardized units representing energy transactions. These units may include kilowatt packets (KWP), power supply values (PSV), power trading blocks (PTB), or combinations thereof. The settlement messages are associated with at least one master active grid element, a plurality of active grid elements, or other active grid elements within the grid. The system facilitates automated settlement processes by standardizing energy transaction data, ensuring accurate and transparent compensation for energy contributions. This approach improves efficiency in distributed energy markets by reducing manual reconciliation and enabling dynamic energy trading between grid participants. The invention supports scalable and decentralized energy settlement, enhancing grid resilience and participant engagement in energy markets.

Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The system of claim 14 , wherein the market-based financial settlement is managed by a clearinghouse between market participants and utilities.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for managing market-based financial settlements in energy markets, addressing inefficiencies in transactions between market participants and utilities. The system facilitates automated financial settlements by processing energy transactions through a centralized clearinghouse, which acts as an intermediary to ensure accurate and timely payments between buyers and sellers. The clearinghouse aggregates transaction data, verifies compliance with market rules, and settles financial obligations, reducing disputes and operational costs. The system also integrates with utility billing systems to reconcile energy deliveries with financial settlements, ensuring transparency and reducing administrative overhead. By automating these processes, the system improves liquidity, minimizes counterparty risk, and enhances market efficiency. The clearinghouse may also provide risk management services, such as collateral management and default protection, to further stabilize the market. This approach streamlines financial workflows, supports scalable energy trading, and ensures reliable settlement processes in competitive energy markets.

Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. The system of claim 14 , wherein at least one of the at least one coordinator, the at least one master active grid element, and the settlement processor is operable to communicate with at least one of a data center, a central office, a retail store, a hospital, a fabrication facility, a manufacturing facility, and a service facility.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a distributed energy grid system designed to optimize energy distribution and settlement processes. The system includes multiple interconnected grid elements, such as active grid elements, coordinators, and a settlement processor, which work together to manage energy flow, storage, and transactions within the grid. The system is particularly useful in environments where decentralized energy management is required, such as smart grids, microgrids, or industrial facilities. The system enables real-time monitoring and control of energy distribution, allowing for efficient balancing of supply and demand. The settlement processor facilitates financial transactions related to energy exchange, ensuring accurate billing and compensation for energy providers and consumers. The coordinators and active grid elements can communicate with various external entities, including data centers, central offices, retail stores, hospitals, fabrication facilities, manufacturing facilities, and service facilities. This connectivity allows the system to integrate with broader infrastructure, enabling seamless energy management across different sectors. The system is designed to enhance energy efficiency, reduce costs, and improve reliability by dynamically adjusting energy flows based on real-time data. It supports both renewable and conventional energy sources, making it adaptable to various energy generation and consumption scenarios. The ability to interface with diverse facilities ensures that the system can be deployed in a wide range of applications, from commercial buildings to industrial complexes.

Claim 18

Original Legal Text

18. The system of claim 14 , wherein at least one of the at least one master active grid element, plurality of active grid elements, and at least one other active grid element has a home location identifier and a non-home location identifier, wherein the market-based financial settlement includes factors and attributes for grid element participation associated with the home location identifier and with the non-home location identifier.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an active grid management system for electrical power distribution networks, addressing the challenge of efficiently integrating and managing distributed energy resources (DERs) such as renewable energy sources, energy storage systems, and flexible loads. The system optimizes grid operations by enabling market-based financial settlements for grid elements, including master active grid elements, a plurality of active grid elements, and other active grid elements. These elements can participate in grid services, such as frequency regulation, voltage support, or demand response, while being compensated based on their contributions. A key feature is the assignment of home and non-home location identifiers to grid elements. The home location identifier represents the primary operational or geographical location of the grid element, while the non-home location identifier allows the element to participate in grid services outside its home location. The market-based financial settlement system incorporates factors and attributes tied to these identifiers, ensuring fair compensation based on the element's location and role in grid operations. This flexibility enhances grid resilience and efficiency by enabling dynamic participation in multiple markets or regions. The system supports real-time or near-real-time adjustments to grid operations, optimizing energy flows and reducing costs.

Claim 19

Original Legal Text

19. The system of claim 14 , further including at least one resource settlement point providing for grid element mobility for the market-based financial settlement at more than one location within the electric power grid network.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an electric power grid network system designed to enhance market-based financial settlement flexibility. The system enables the mobility of grid elements, allowing financial settlements to occur at multiple locations within the network. This addresses the challenge of static settlement points, which can limit operational efficiency and market participation. The system includes a plurality of grid elements, such as generators, loads, and storage devices, interconnected to form a network. These elements are capable of participating in market transactions, where energy or capacity is traded based on market prices. The system further incorporates a resource settlement point that can dynamically adjust its location within the grid, enabling financial transactions to be settled at different points depending on operational or market conditions. This mobility improves grid flexibility, reduces congestion, and optimizes market-based operations by allowing settlements to occur closer to where energy is generated or consumed. The system may also include communication interfaces for transmitting market data and control signals, ensuring seamless coordination between grid elements and settlement points. By enabling location-flexible financial settlements, the invention enhances the efficiency and adaptability of power grid markets.

Claim 20

Original Legal Text

20. The system of claim 14 , wherein the performance of at least one event within the electric power grid network enables at least one of the plurality of active grid elements and the at least one other active grid element to provide operating reserves and/or grid stabilization for the electric power grid network.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an electric power grid network system designed to enhance grid stability and reserve capacity. The system includes multiple active grid elements, such as distributed energy resources (DERs), energy storage systems, or controllable loads, that can dynamically respond to grid conditions. These elements are configured to provide operating reserves and grid stabilization by adjusting their output or consumption in response to grid demands or disturbances. The system monitors grid conditions in real-time and coordinates the activation of these elements to maintain frequency regulation, voltage stability, or other critical grid functions. By leveraging multiple active grid elements, the system improves the reliability and resilience of the power grid, particularly during peak demand or fault conditions. The invention ensures that the grid can quickly adapt to changes, reducing the risk of blackouts or instability. The system may also integrate with traditional grid infrastructure to optimize overall performance and efficiency. This approach allows for decentralized control, reducing reliance on centralized power plants and enhancing the grid's ability to handle variable renewable energy sources. The invention addresses the challenge of maintaining grid stability in modern power systems with increasing integration of intermittent renewable energy and distributed resources.

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Patent Metadata

Filing Date

September 29, 2017

Publication Date

December 3, 2019

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